Rolling in the New Year can be quite pricey in Houston, but there are options for celebrants on a budget.
They say everything is bigger in Texas. But bigger doesn't have to mean the most expensive—especially when it comes to your New Year's plans. If you'll be spending this holiday in Houston, you don't have to start 2016 in tears after looking at your bank account the next morning. Here are six ways to celebrate in H-Town—without breaking the bank.
What would New Year's Eve be without brilliant, bright lights? Sugar Land Town Square will be enchanted with state-of the-art lighting effects, heart-pumping music, and a vibrant party atmosphere. To make this a family-friendly option for all ages, the night is split between two parts so everyone has a chance to celebrate. The Children's Celebration will take place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will feature walk-around entertainment, street performances, a live DJ, and a fireworks finale, while the Adult's Celebration, taking place from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., will have a live DJ and main stage entertainment, a 3D midnight show with fireworks, and "adults only" beverages that are available for purchase.
Can't narrow down your options? You don't have to. CityCentre will have a live DJ in the plaza beginning at 7 p.m., and its numerous restaurants, retailers, and lounges are hosting site-specific events, so you can spend the evening hopping around the district. When the clock strikes 12, there will be a fireworks show in the Plaza, so find your loved ones and head there for a magical show to remember.
Looking for a bit of romance? Why not get a "spark" at the Field of Light, a dazzling art installation by English impresario Bruce Munro. As dusk falls over downtown Houston, the fiber optic is illuminated and the work lives up to its name. The vibrant display will remain along the Brown Promenade each day from dusk until 11 p.m. through February 21, 2016.
Every Thursday, you have the opportunity enhance your cultural palate and enjoy free admission to the amazing Museum of Fine Arts. December 31 (New Year's Eve) is no different, as you'll still be able to take advantage of a variety of programming that is fun for the whole family. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and highlights include Family Flicks: Party Mix, Winter Break at the Museum (kids learn about Mark Rothko and sketch in the galleries), and Highlights of the Rienzi Collection in a one-hour docent-guided tour.
The kids will be able to 'turn up' this New Year's too. The New Year's Noon Bash is a daytime party just for kids December 31. The event, which takes place every year at the Children's Museum of Houston, is complete with a countdown, ball drop, and parade featuring a New Orleans-style brass band. Museum admission is $10, which includes the Noon Bash and after party with a DJ, but if you want a completely free option, you can attend between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. for Family Night Hours.
Here's your chance to ring in the New Year in the heart of downtown Houston. Featuring the "world's greatest party band," the evening will be a free and family-friendly night of music, food, fun, and a spectacular fireworks display presented by the City of Houston. Thousands of people will fill the streets of Houston's Theater District for a live-television broadcast and midnight countdown. It's sure to be an evening you don't want to miss.
